Cheap train tickets from South Bend to Chicago
Find and compare the best ground travel options in one place.
Trip Summary
There are usually 3 daily train trips available from South Bend to Chicago. Traveling by train from South Bend to Chicago usually takes 2 hours and 2 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Floridian train can make the trip in 1 hour and 54 minutes.
- Distance
- 72 mi (116 km)
- Fastest train
- 1h 54m
- Lowest price
- RON 110.22
- Trains per day
- 3
- Most frequent service
- Amtrak Lake Shore Limited
- Train lines
- 2
Millions of travelers trust Wanderu every year to get:
Lowest Prices
We find the cheapest bus & train tickets, so you can wander for less.
Best Travel Options
We partner with 500+ carriers to bring you the most bus & train options.
Quick & Easy Booking
Book trips quickly with a simple, hassle-free checkout – online & on our app.
Fast Customer Support
We don’t monkey around. We respond within minutes to help you out.
See what travelers are saying about Wanderu:
South Bend to Chicago Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by bus or train from South Bend to Chicago?
There are usually 10 daily bus trips available from South Bend to Chicago.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. PriceRON 169.79 | Avg. PriceRON 152.54Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips3 | Daily Trips10 |
Duration | Duration2h 2mFaster | Duration3h 33m |

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from South Bend to Chicago (Based on 9 ratings and reviews)
5.0
5.0
5.0
There are several train options that can take you from South Bend to Chicago:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from South Bend to Chicago?
In the last month, train tickets from South Bend to Chicago cost about RON 129 when booked at the cheapest time. This is basically as cheap as train fares can get. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 26 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around RON 118.46 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from South Bend to Chicago by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from South Bend to Chicago will cost between RON 115 and RON 177. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from South Bend to Chicago by month
Ticket prices for the train from South Bend to Chicago often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in February when the average ticket price is only RON 144. If you're thinking of traveling from South Bend to Chicago during March, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of RON 273 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in March, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from South Bend to Chicago on Wanderu at least 26 days ahead of time, you can save about RON 118.46 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
Which train should you take from South Bend to Chicago?
2 train services operate from South Bend to Chicago. Amtrak Lake Shore Limited usually has more trains scheduled, with 2 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Floridian | 1 | 1h 55m | RON 145.21 |
| Amtrak Lake Shore Limited | 2 | 2h 6m | RON 182.05 |
Amtrak Floridian train tickets from South Bend to Chicago start from RON 110.22, and on average cost RON 145.21. Daily, Amtrak Floridian runs one schedule to Chicago. Amtrak Floridian in South Bend leaves from 2702 W Washington St. And in Chicago trains arrive at Union Station.
From South Bend to Chicago train travel on Amtrak Floridian takes 1 hour and 55 minutes. If you are looking to get to Chicago faster, Amtrak Floridian offers more express schedule options with a travel time of 1 hour and 54 minutes.
If you are looking to travel to Chicago on a weekend there is typically one Amtrak Floridian scheduled trip per day, which will cost RON 110.22 for a one-way weekend reservation from South Bend.
The Amtrak Lake Shore Limited is an overnight train that runs along some of the best shorelines in the U.S., connecting New York City and Boston with Chicago. The service provides top-tier amenities to its passengers, including free WiFi and dining onboard. The Lake Shore Limited departs from 2702 W Washington St in South Bend and arrives at Union Station in Chicago. The route takes about 2 hours and 6 minutes and ticket prices start at RON 115.01.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from South Bend to Chicago
There are 3 daily scheduled trains, all of which are direct trains that take you the entire way from South Bend to Chicago. You can also take a train for your return trip from Chicago to South Bend. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from South Bend to Chicago for RON 77.
Trains per day
3
Direct trains
3
The distance between South Bend and Chicago is approximately 72 miles. The average train journey between these two cities takes 2 hours and 2 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 1 hour and 54 minutes. As a relatively short ride, taking the train is an easy way to travel between these two cities.
Distance (mi)
72
Distance (km)
116
The earliest train departs South Bend at 7:51 AM while the last train of the day leaves at 9:07 AM. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
First train
7:51am
Last train
9:07am
Trains from South Bend to Chicago are the most crowded on Monday. Tickets also tend to be more expensive then. If you are looking for a great deal on your train tickets or just want extra room to stretch out, consider traveling on Sunday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
Busiest
Monday
Least crowded
Sunday
City Information
South Bend



South Bend is quite a small city in Indiana, but this town offers plenty of beautiful landmarks and outdoor activities that will keep you captivated. When visiting South Bend, don't miss the Century Center, which not only hosts some of the best exhibitions in town but also boasts a great view towards the nearby St Joseph River, making it a particularly photogenic spot. The North/South Continental Divide is one particular point of interest, just a bit further down the US 20 bypass. Immerse yourself in nature at Shiojiri Niwa, a Japanese garden with more than twenty different large plants.
Though a small town, South Bend still has plenty of great dining options on its plate. For the best locally sourced burgers and a killer view of the river, check out Oaken Bucket Restaurant. If you can splurge a little bit, LaSalle Grill offers some of the finest dishes in town!
South Bend is a convenient location to reach from anywhere in the Midwest, with several bus stations in the city and Amtrak service stopping at a station close to downtown. In addition, South Bend International Airport is very close to the city and offers flights to domestic and international destinations.
Chicago



Known for its innovative architecture, cultural contributions to jazz and house music, and of course that irresistible deep-dish pizza, the many sights and experiences in Chicago make it one of the best urban vacation destinations for millennials and a top destination in Illinois.
You can't beat the views of the city and Lake Michigan from the SkyDeck in the Willis Tower; at over 1,300 feet, this is the highest observation deck in the U.S. Snap that classic selfie with the Bean in Millennium Park, then wander the many museums in nearby Grant Park. Navy Pier is a popular tourist hotspot for its parks, restaurants, and attractions right on Lake Michigan, and baseball fans will find paradise in Wrigleyville, home to the Chicago Cubs' Wrigley Field and sports bars galore.
Chicago's enormous parks offer plentiful opportunities for outdoor activities in gorgeous urban settings. Many companies offer kayak rentals or boat tours on the Chicago River, with special tours running on Saint Patrick's Day, when the entire river is dyed green. When you’re ready to buy some souvenirs from your epic trip, hit the big brand stores on the Magnificent Mile, or shop local in neighborhoods like Andersonville and Wicker Park. And don't miss the chance to laugh until you cry at The Second City comedy theater, famous for launching the careers of comedians like Tina Fey and Stephen Colbert.
Chicago is one of the biggest transportation hubs in the Midwest, and provides easy access to nearby destinations ideal for day trips, as well as international travel from two airports. Thanks to plenty of bus and train stations throughout the city, getting to the Windy City is a breeze.
Station Information
Where is the train station in South Bend?
Main departure station: 2702 W Washington St


The South Bend Amtrak Station opened more than 50 years ago. In 1970, the Chicago South Shore and South Bend Railroad constructed the station, and South Shore Line was the main rail provider until 1992. Located in the cultural hub of “Michiana,” the station is near the Notre Dame University campus. Today, the South Bend Station is served by Amtrak's Lake Shore Limited and Capitol Limited lines, connecting South Bend with New York City, Boston, Chicago, and Washington, D.C. The practical one-story concrete block station is painted a vivid, deep blue. Passengers can wait for trains on the spacious porch beside the tracks. A small shelter is also accessible on the adjacent platform.
All train stations in South Bend:
- 2702 W Washington St
Where is the train station in Chicago?
Main arrival station: Union Station


The historic Chicago Union Station is the United States' third busiest train station and a hub for 15 Amtrak train lines with destinations throughout the country. The station also serves bus carriers like Greyhound, Indian Trails and Jefferson Lines, and offers connections to Metra commuter lines. Union Station is also just a quick walk to the nearest Chicago L lines. The current station was built in 1925, to replace the original one dating back to 1881, and today wows visitors with its impressive facade, massive columns, and opulent Great Hall. Located right in downtown and adjacent to the Chicago Loop, Union Station is equipped with many services and amenities, including phone charging stations, shops, and various food and drink options.
All train stations in Chicago:
- Union Station
Need a return trip from Chicago to South Bend?
Search Train TicketsPlan your next adventure
More trains from South Bend
- South Bend to Los Angeles TrainRON 1,265+
- South Bend to Washington DC TrainRON 527+
- South Bend to Indianapolis TrainRON 345+
- South Bend to Ann Arbor TrainRON 369+
- South Bend to Grand Rapids TrainRON 302+
- South Bend to St Louis TrainRON 340+
- South Bend to Cleveland TrainRON 206+
- South Bend to Seattle TrainRON 1,864+
- South Bend to Madison TrainRON 359+
- South Bend to Denver TrainRON 1,294+
- South Bend to Orlando TrainRON 1,064+
- South Bend to Boston TrainRON 633+
- South Bend to Detroit TrainRON 388+
- South Bend to St Paul TrainRON 455+
- South Bend to New York TrainRON 685+
- South Bend to Pittsburgh TrainRON 292+
- South Bend to Columbus TrainRON 264+
- South Bend to Milwaukee TrainRON 297+
Continue by train from Chicago
- Chicago to San Francisco TrainRON 1,696+
- Chicago to Miami TrainRON 1,462+
- Chicago to Indianapolis TrainRON 335+
- Chicago to South Bend TrainRON 139+
- Chicago to Ann Arbor TrainRON 369+
- Chicago to Grand Rapids TrainRON 216+
- Chicago to Kansas City TrainRON 518+
- Chicago to New York TrainRON 1,059+
- Chicago to Seattle TrainRON 1,883+
- Chicago to Washington DC TrainRON 819+
- Chicago to Champaign TrainRON 168+
- Chicago to Michigan City Train
- Chicago to Boston TrainRON 829+
- Chicago to Detroit TrainRON 374+
- Chicago to St Paul TrainRON 441+
- Chicago to St Louis TrainRON 311+
- Chicago to Cleveland TrainRON 379+
- Chicago to Milwaukee TrainRON 129+
Check out these popular routes
- Toronto to Montreal TrainRON 288+
- Montreal to Québec City TrainRON 182+
- Washington DC to New York TrainRON 738+
- Orlando to Miami TrainRON 283+
- Boston to New York TrainRON 776+
- New York to Washington DC TrainRON 767+
- New York to Baltimore TrainRON 733+
- New York to Providence TrainRON 724+
- Philadelphia to New York TrainRON 388+
- Montreal to Toronto TrainRON 268+
- Washington DC to New Rochelle TrainRON 628+
- Washington DC to Philadelphia TrainRON 431+
- Boston to New Rochelle TrainRON 527+
- Baltimore to New York TrainRON 676+
- New York to Boston TrainRON 714+
- New York to Philadelphia TrainRON 388+
- Philadelphia to Washington DC TrainRON 403+
- Providence to New York TrainRON 728+

Wanderu is the simplest way to book bus and train travel.
With just a quick search on Wanderu, you can compare bus and train schedules and prices from hundreds of travel companies in one convenient place to find the trip that works best for you. Wanderu’s simple checkout process makes it easy to book cheap bus and train tickets hassle-free. Most importantly, as Wanderu is an official partner of all leading bus and train companies, we always have the best bus and train deals out there.




